Research Areas

We study oscillatory dynamics, theoretically, numerically and from measured data. We have pioneered the understanding of a living system as a collection of time-varying oscillatory processes.

Time-variability is inherent, on account of the system's ability to adjust its characteristic frequencies and adapt to changing circumstances. We have introduced a new class of systems and named them chronotaxic systems (from Chronos - time, and taxis - order). Chronotaxic systems are non-autonomous self-sustained oscillators that possess point attractor. They provide a route to stability in highly complex systems. Until now, such systems have mostly been treated as stochastic, whereas we have recently shown that they can be entirely deterministic. We are currently developing methods for inferring the dynamics of chronotaxic systems from real data.

By applying ideas and methods from nonlinear and stochastic dynamics, we study the fundamental physical properties of living systems. On the nanoscale, we examine ion channels. We treat the permeation of ion channels as a problem in stochastic nonlinear dynamics and electrostatics, illuminating the long-standing conduction-selectivity paradox. That is to say, the issue of how channels can be highly selective for particular species of ion, yet still conduct at an enormous rate, almost as though they were just open holes in the cell membrane.

Oscillations are a universal phenomenon in living systems. We investigate oscillatory behaviour on all scales and levels of complexity - from the cell membrane potential to cardiovascular and brain dynamics. We are especially interested in the influence of the oscillators on each other - their mutual interactions and coupling functions. The resultant modulation and synchronisation phenomena occur in physiology in just the same way that they do for coupled oscillators in physics. Comparison of the model phenomena with physiological data measured for healthy subjects in our laboratory and patients in our collaborating hospitals is illuminating and characterising diverse conditions and diseases.

Current PhD Opportunities

Accordion

Aims

The research aims to apply ideas from condensed matter physics (quantum dots) to reach an understanding of ion channel conduction and selectivity based on the recently discovered phenomenon of ionic Coulomb blockade also allowing for the effect of dehydration. More generally, we aim to create a statistical theory of the permeation process taking explicit account of non-identical binding sites in the channel, the possibility of more than one ion at a binding site, and the consequences of ions being able to pass each other (i.e. non-single-file conduction).

Supervisors

PVE McClintock

A Stefanovska

DG Luchinsky

Collaboration

Biological and Life Sciences Department

University of Warwick

Rush University (Chicago)

Postgraduate Training

The Nonlinear and Biomedical Physics group runs training workshops for postgraduate students throughout the year, covering both subject-specific and more general research skills.

The form and content of the workshops are determined through dialogue with the PhD students so that the most effective training can be provided. Although the events are designed to meet the needs of students in Nonlinear and Biomedical Physics, they are also available to other postgraduate students on request, as well as to MPhys project students working within the group. Additional training is offered by the Faculty of Science and Technology, ISS, and the Library.

Our students attend a variety of scientific conferences, for which they receive support in the preparation of posters and oral presentations. They also have the opportunity to develop their presentation skills via participation in the Department’s outreach programme. They play an important role in working with the A-level and internship students that visit our group during the summer.